The UEFA Women`s Champions League semifinals are upon us, with Barcelona and Chelsea set to clash for a spot in the final in Lisbon. This marks the third consecutive year these two powerhouses meet in the semifinal stage. The winner of this two-leg tie will face either Arsenal or Lyon in the final on May 24th at Estádio José Alvalade.
Match Preview: Barcelona vs Chelsea
Barcelona will host Chelsea for the first leg of their semifinal encounter. Barcelona has historically been dominant in their meetings with Chelsea, notably defeating them in the 2020-21 UWCL final.
This upcoming match will be the first Champions League encounter for both teams under their new coaches. Sonia Bompastor now leads Chelsea, succeeding Emma Hayes, and Pere Romeu has taken charge of Barcelona following Jonatan Giraldez`s move to the NWSL.
Match Details
- Date: Sunday, April 20
- Time: 12 p.m. ET
- Location: Estadi Johan Cruyff, Barcelona, Spain
UWCL Semifinal Schedule
First Legs
- Saturday, April 19: Lyon 2, Arsenal 1
- Sunday, April 20: Barcelona vs Chelsea (12 p.m. ET)
Second Legs
- Sunday, April 27: Chelsea vs Barcelona (9 a.m. ET)
- Sunday, April 27: Lyon vs Arsenal (12 p.m. ET)
UWCL Final
- Saturday, May 24: Arsenal/Lyon vs Barcelona/Chelsea – Estádio José Alvalade, Lisbon, Portugal (12 p.m. ET)
Previous Encounters
- 2023-24 Semifinals: Barcelona 2-1 Chelsea (aggregate)
- 2022-23 Semifinals: Barcelona 2-1 Chelsea (aggregate)
- 2020-21 Final: Barcelona 4-0 Chelsea
This is the third consecutive UWCL semifinal matchup between Barcelona and Chelsea. Barcelona has won all three of their recent meetings.
Barcelona`s Perspective
As reigning champions, Barcelona remains the team to beat. Coach Pere Romeu acknowledges the increasing difficulty of facing Chelsea each year and is carefully planning for this semifinal.
Romeu anticipates a challenging tie, describing Chelsea as a team strong in fast attacks, particularly on the wings, and effective in counter-attacks. He expects a long and demanding battle where Barcelona will aim to control possession, win the ball back effectively, and exploit counter-attacking opportunities.
Chelsea`s Viewpoint
Chelsea is aware of their past UWCL record against Barcelona. However, under the guidance of Sonia Bompastor, who has a history of Champions League success with Lyon as both player and coach, Chelsea aims to overcome this challenge. They are in contention for a quadruple this season, and the Champions League title remains a key ambition.
Bompastor recognizes Barcelona`s experience and talent but emphasizes that “in football, everything is possible” and expresses confidence in her team`s chances.
Predicted Lineups
Barcelona
Cata Coll; Ona Batlle, Irene Paredes, Mapi Leon, Esmee Brugts; Aitana Bonmati, Patri Guijarro, Alexia Putellas; Carolie Graham Hansen, Salma Paralluelo, Ewa Pajor
Chelsea
Hannah Hampton; Lucy Bronze, Nathalie Bjorn, Millie Bright, Sandy Baltimore; Kiera Walsh, Erin Cuthbert; Rytting Kaneryd, Wieke Kaptein, Aggie Beever-Jones; Mayra Ramirez
American Player to Watch
Catarina Macario (Chelsea): After recovering from an ACL injury, Macario has been increasing her playing time and recently contributed with a goal for the USWNT. She could play a significant role in this match.
Prediction
Given the history of close first-leg semifinal matches between these teams, expect another tight encounter at Estadi Johan Cruyff, potentially focused on a midfield battle.
Prediction: Barcelona 1, Chelsea 1
